New International Version - UK

Job 32

Elihu

1So these three men stopped answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. 2 But Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, became very angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God. 3 He was also angry with the three friends, because they had found no way to refute Job, and yet had condemned him.[a]4 Now Elihu had waited before speaking to Job because they were older than he. 5 But when he saw that the three men had nothing more to say, his anger was aroused.

6 So Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite said:

‘I am young in years,and you are old;that is why I was fearful,not daring to tell you what I know.7 I thought, “Age should speak;advanced years should teach wisdom.”8 But it is the spirit[b] in a person,the breath of the Almighty, that gives them understanding.9 It is not only the old[c] who are wise,not only the aged who understand what is right.

10 ‘Therefore I say: listen to me;I too will tell you what I know.11 I waited while you spoke,I listened to your reasoning;while you were searching for words,12 I gave you my full attention.But not one of you has proved Job wrong;none of you has answered his arguments.13 Do not say, “We have found wisdom;let God, not a man, refute him.”14 But Job has not marshalled his words against me,and I will not answer him with your arguments.

15 ‘They are dismayed and have no more to say;words have failed them.16 Must I wait, now that they are silent,now that they stand there with no reply?17 I too will have my say;I too will tell what I know.18 For I am full of words,and the spirit within me compels me;19 inside I am like bottled-up wine,like new wineskins ready to burst.20 I must speak and find relief;I must open my lips and reply.21 I will show no partiality,nor will I flatter anyone;22 for if I were skilled in flattery,my Maker would soon take me away.